Eagles star targeted in online racial attack

The premiership star Liam Ryan has been left devastated by online racist trolls targeting him.

The online troll who posted a racist jibe at West Coast Eagle star Liam Ryan issued an apology last night after a national backlash over his comment.

The West Australian today names and shames Ash Jones as the author of the post, as AFL legends and teammates of Ryan said action must be taken over racist slurs.

Mr Jones, who initially refused to comment when contacted by The West Australian, last night apologised to Ryan and his family for the “disgusting comment I made”.

“It was not funny in any way or form,” he said. “I’d like to also apologise to the indigenous community across Australia for my immature comments, as of native descent in my family from another country I. too, know how it is to be on the side of racist remarks. I am embarrassed as a father for setting this example. It’s just not on ever.

West Coast Eagles coach Adam Simpson has spoken out against racism in the wake of hurtful comments about Liam Ryan on social media after Saturday's game.Image: AAP

“I hope that Liam can accept this apology as I have truly learnt the seriousness of this matter.”

Mr Jones changed the privacy settings and user name on his Instagram account to block angry fans from contacting him.

Mr Jones apologised to John Glenane, a friend who was tagged in the racist slur.

Mr Glenane said he was furious his Instagram handle had been included alongside the vile comments.

Chevron Right Icon“Ash’s not that type, he’s one of the nicest blokes. He’s just a prankster, he meant nothing by it."

Mr Glenane said: “Ash’s not that type, he’s one of the nicest blokes. He’s just a prankster, he meant nothing by it.

“He’s a little jokester, he feels really bad at the moment, he feels terrible. He’s worried about his family, he has a one-year-old baby.”

A second social media user who also referred to Ryan in racist terms appeared to have deleted their Instagram account yesterday, too.

Former Fremantle and Brisbane star Des Headland and Eagles chief executive Trevor Nisbett led a chorus of calls yesterday for those who post racist comments to be outed and banned from the game for life.

Josh Kennedy is sick of the trolls.Image: AAP

Mr Nisbett, who described the comments as abhorrent, said Ryan was devastated.